10 Sun Protection Tips for Your Next Beach Vacation

While we love sharing about the best things do in in Southern California, we also want to make sure that the whole family stays safe, healthy, and happy along the way. One of our favorite things about Southern California is the sunny weather - but those golden rays can also be a hazard if you travel unprepared!

Whether you are shopping at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, building sandcastles in San Clemente or Corona Del Mar’s Little Corona Beach, exploring Carlsbad’s Legoland California, or cruising the Dana Point Harbor, here are our top 10 tips for staying sun-safe during your next California vacation!

1. Use Sunscreen!

Whether you choose an all-natural sunscreen from your favorite boutique or whatever is on sale at Target, it is so important that you use sunscreen to shield yourself and your family!
Sunscreen will help prevent skin damage and early aging, not to mention protect against sunburn that will seriously take the fun out of your beach trip.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or greater, and is water resistant.

Pack your favorite sunscreen in your purse or beach bag, leave an extra in your car, and keep another at home. When you're vacationing in a sunny location you really can't have too much sunscreen!

And while you're shopping for sunscreen, make sure to...

2. Choose cream for better coverage.

Although spray sunscreens are convenient, they have a larger chance of missing parts of the body, as well as produce unwanted fumes. Instead,
choose a cream-textured sunscreen, or spray sunscreen on your hands for a more precise application.
Nothing is worse than finding yourself blotchy and red after a day at the beach!

3. Get picky about SPF and UVA/UVB protection

Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays are the typical skin cancer and early skin aging culprits, while Ultraviolet sun radiation (UVB) causes sunburns. "
Broad-spectrum" protects from both.
So look out for a sunscreen that will shield you from the sun in all ways!

When choosing an SPF, look for something between 30-50.
That SPF 100 sunscreen on the shelf looks mighty impressive, but SPF values indicate the level of sun protection against UVB, not UVA. Numbers higher than 50 don’t do much more, and they can give you a false sense of security so you may neglect to reapply as often as you should.

Speaking of reapplying...

4. Reapply!

Sunscreen has a limited lifespan, so
make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
Once is not enough for a long day in the sun! Even under a cloudy sky, reapplication is important! Set a timer if you have to, and remind the kids to put fresh sunscreen on too.

Setting a reminder to reapply sunscreen can also help you remember to pause and stay hydrated throughout the day,
which is also very important when you're spending a lot of time in the sun. Take a break to put on more sunscreen, and also to grab some water!

5. Apply generously, daily

Apply your sunscreen generously!
Experts say to apply around 1 oz, or ‘one shot glass’s worth of sunscreen, depending on your size.
Allow the sunscreen to dry for 20 minutes before playing outside.

Anytime you are going to be outside, especially in California, be sure to apply sunscreen. Your skin may not feel warm, but
even on cloudy days, 80% of rays penetrate the clouds and require prevention.

6. Keep babies out of the sun

Sunscreen is great, but
ideally, young babies should be kept out of the sun completely.
For older babies and toddlers, work to keep them clothed in long sleeves and hats that cover their necks to protect them as much as possible! If you're out for a walk or visiting a theme park make sure to use the canopy of your stroller for easy shade.

If you do apply sunscreen for your little one, choose a baby sunscreen that will be gentle on baby's skin. Before applying sunscreen all over, test some on baby's inner arm to make sure it is non-irritable.

7. Wear a hat.

One of the easiest ways to prevent sun damage is by shielding yourself with clothes and accessories, like hats.
Hats provide a physical barrier from the sun, and work to combat harmful rays from damaging your face
—which is most susceptible to sun damage.

A sun also makes a great souvenir, so why not plan to do some hat shopping during your trip?

8. Don't forget your eyes
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory!
High quality sunglasses protect both your eyes, and the sensitive skin around them.
Did you know nearly 10% of skin cancers are found near the eyes? Prolonged exposure to UV rays can also contribute to cataracts and glaucoma and multiple other vision problems. So go ahead and splurge on a pair of shades with 100% UVA and UVB protection!

9. Look for shade, or bring your own

Many local parks in Southern California are full of shade trees, perfect for a picnic or playtime, but at the beach shade may be a little harder to find.
If you have your heart set on a sunny afternoon at the beach, try bringing your own shade along.
A beach tent, or a simple umbrella can help keep you and your family comfortable, cool, and protected from the sun.

If you're staying with OC Furnished Rentals you're in luck! We provide beach umbrellas at most of our furnished rentals!

10. Go early (or late).

Try hiking, boating, or visiting the beach in the morning or evening, when the sun is the least strong.
This helps prevent sun damage, and will also help you avoid crowds. We find early morning walks in the coastal haze to be peaceful and refreshing, and an evening around a beach bonfire is a wonderful vacation memory!

Ready to plan your perfect beach day?

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